Adjustable play gym

ABSTRACT

An access adjustable play gym including an entertainment component supported above a support surface by a support arm coupled to a base configured to rest on a support surface. The play gym provides multiple points of adjustability, including user adjustment of a rotational angle of the entertainment component relative to the support arm, of the inclination angle of the support arm relative to the base, and/or of the length of the support arm and thereby the height of the entertainment component.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/304,627 filed Mar. 7, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/346,198 filed Jun. 6, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/395,085 filed Sep. 15, 2016, the entireties of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to the field of children's toys and accessories, and more particularly to a children's play gym providing adjustable positioning for access and use.

BACKGROUND

Play gyms are used for placement over or near a child to provide entertainment and interactivity. Fixed play gyms may limit the positions in which a child can interact with the play gym. For example, if the entertainment aspect of the play gym is configured to be at a fixed position above a child mat, the child can see and interact with the entertainment aspect when they are lying on their back. However, it will be difficult for the child to see and interact with the entertainment aspect of the play gym when they are lying on their side or stomach or sitting. Also, if a fixed play gym is configured for use with a child on a play mat underneath the gym, it will typically be too low, and will interfere with access, for a child seated on a bouncer seat, rocker, or other raised child supporting device.

Accordingly, it can be seen that needs exist for a play gym that allows a parent or other adult caregiver to adjust the position of the entertainment aspect to allow the child to see and interact with the play gym in a variety of positions and support modes. It is to the provision of an access adjustable play gym meeting these and other needs that the present invention is primarily directed.

SUMMARY

In example embodiments, the present invention provides a play gym that allows a parent or other adult caregiver to adjust the position of the entertainment component to allow the child to see and/or interact with the play gym in a variety of positions and different support modes.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to an adjustable play gym including a base configured to rest on a support surface, and a support arm coupled to the base and an entertainment component coupled to the support arm, wherein the angle of inclination of the support arm relative to the base is adjustable.

In another aspect, the invention relates to an adjustable play gym including a base configured to rest on a support surface, a support arm coupled to the base, and an entertainment component coupled to the support arm, wherein the rotational angle of the entertainment component relative to the support arm is adjustable.

In still another aspect, the invention relates to an adjustable play gym including a base configured to rest on a support surface, and a support arm having a first end pivotally coupled to the base whereby an inclination angle of the support arm relative to the base is variable. The support arm preferably further includes a length extension mechanism allowing adjustment of a distance between the base and a second end of the support arm distal the first end. The play gym preferably also includes an entertainment component coupled to the second end of the support arm, the entertainment component including a hub and a plurality of leaves extending from the hub. A rotational angle of the hub is preferably adjustable relative to the support arm, and at least one of the plurality of leaves is repositionable relative to the hub.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be understood with reference to the drawing figures and detailed description herein, and will be realized by means of the various elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following brief description of the drawings and detailed description of example embodiments are explanatory of example embodiments of the invention, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable play gym according to an example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1 with the entertainment canopy in a folded position.

FIGS. 4A-4F show the entertainment canopy of FIG. 3 in a variety of rotational positions.

FIG. 5 shows a detailed view of the coupling between the entertainment canopy and the arm of the adjustable canopy of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 shows the entertainment canopy and arm of FIG. 5 in an uncoupled position.

FIG. 7 shows a front view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1 with the arm in a rotated position.

FIG. 8 shows a front view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 7 with the entertainment canopy in a rotated position.

FIG. 9 shows a front view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 8 with children's toys supported thereon.

FIG. 10 shows a front view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 7 with the entertainment canopy in a rotated position.

FIG. 11 shows a front view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1 with the entertainment canopy in a folded position and the arm in a rotated position.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 11, with the arm in an alternate rotated position.

FIG. 13 shows the adjustable play gym of FIG. 11 with an alternate entertainment component.

FIG. 14 shows the adjustable play gym of FIG. 11 with an alternate entertainment component.

FIG. 15 shows the adjustable play gym of FIG. 14 interacting with an electronic device.

FIG. 16 shows a detailed view of the arm of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1.

FIG. 17 shows a detailed view of the arm of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1.

FIG. 18 shows the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1 in a mode of use with a play mat.

FIG. 19 shows the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1 in a mode of use with a raised child containment device.

FIG. 20 shows the adjustable play gym of FIG. 17 in an alternate position.

FIG. 21 shows a detailed view of the base of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1.

FIG. 22 shows a detailed view of the base of the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1 in a folded position.

FIG. 23 shows the adjustable play gym of FIG. 1 in a folded position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of example embodiments taken in connection with the accompanying drawing figures, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific devices, methods, conditions or parameters described and/or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Any and all patents and other publications identified in this specification are incorporated by reference as though fully set forth herein.

Also, as used in the specification including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particular numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

With reference now to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIGS. 1-23 show an access adjustable play gym 10 according to example embodiments of the present invention. The play gym 10 generally includes an entertainment aspect or component 20 supported above a support surface by a support arm 50 coupled to a base 70 configured to rest on a support surface. In example embodiments, the play gym 10 comprises multiple points of adjustability, for example at least two, and optionally three, four or more points of adjustability are provided. For example, the rotational angle of the entertainment component 20 can be selectively adjusted relative to the support arm 50; the angle of inclination of the support arm 50 can be selectively adjusted relative to the base 70; the length of the support arm 50 can be selectively adjusted by extension and retraction to vary the height or distance of the entertainment component 20 from the base; and/or leaves or other components of the entertainment component 20 can be selectively repositioned relative to one another and/or relative to a hub portion thereof. In example embodiments, the gym can be constructed of a substantially rigid conventional polymer, metals, plastic, wood, and/or other materials. One or more portions of the gym can optionally include a metal skeleton covered by a polymer shell.

The entertainment component 20 of the depicted embodiment is a canopy, shown in FIGS. 2-6. The canopy 20 generally includes a plurality of leaves 22 configured to shade a child positioned below the canopy and/or to provide or support one or more entertainment or interaction features for a child positioned beneath, beside or around the device. In the depicted embodiment, the canopy 20 includes three leaves 22 attached to a hub 30. In example embodiments, the center leaf 24 remains in a fixed position relative to the hub 30 and the other leaves 26 are pivotally attached to the hub. The pivotal leaves 26 can be pivoted between an unfolded position as shown in FIG. 2, and a folded position as shown in FIG. 3. In example embodiments, the pivotal attachments of the pivotal leaves 26 are by gears or other linkage mechanism, such that movement of one pivotally attached leaf results in a synchronous mirrored movement of the other pivotally attached leaf. This feature allows the caregiver to move the canopy 20 between the folded and unfolded positions with minimal movement, and optionally with a one-handed operation. In alternate embodiments, the pivotal leaves 26 are independently attached to the hub 30. The leaves 22 can be formed from a substantially rigid material, such as for example a lightweight plastic, wood or other material. In other embodiments, the leaves 22 can be formed from a fabric material coupled to a substantially rigid frame. In example embodiments, the leaves 22 are opaque or translucent to provide shade, or alternatively can be at least partially transparent for interaction between a child positioned below the leaves and an adult above the leaves. In example embodiments, the leaves 22 and hub 30 provide sufficient structural support to allow one or more toys or other entertainment elements to be suspended or otherwise supported.

In the example embodiments, the entertainment canopy 20 is able to rotate or twist relative to the support arm 50. As shown in FIGS. 4A-F, the canopy 20 is able to rotate at least 180° relative to the support arm 50. In other embodiments, the canopy 20 can have a smaller range of rotation, such as 90° or larger range of rotation, including the ability to fully rotate 360°. In the depicted embodiment, the coupling between the support arm 50 and the entertainment canopy 20 allows the entertainment canopy to rotate. In alternate embodiments, the connection between the leaves 22 and the hub 30 can be rotatable. The coupling between the support arm 50 and entertainment canopy 20 is optionally also detachable, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The entertainment canopy 20 includes a channel 32 configured to receive a shaft 52 on the support arm 50. The coupling also includes a locking mechanism with a release button 34. To decouple the entertainment canopy 20 and the support arm 50, the adult caregiver pushes the button 34 to release the locking mechanism. The channel 32 can be push fitted over the shaft 52 to reattach the canopy 20 to the support arm 50. The canopy 20 can be detached for more efficient packaging and shipping, and compact storage when not in use. The detachment and/or other actuation components may be located away from the child's access to allow adult operation only. The access adjustable play gym 10 can also include a variety of different entertainment components 20 that can be used with the same support arm 50.

In example embodiments, the support arm 50 is generally L-shaped with a proximal end coupled to the base 70 and a bent distal end including the entertainment component coupling 52. In alternate embodiments, the distal end is not angled and the support arm 50 is substantially straight or arcuately curved. The proximal end of the support arm 50 is pivotally coupled to the base 70, for example by a hinged joint or coupling, such that the angle of inclination of the support arm can be adjusted as desired by rotation or pivotal repositioning of the support arm relative to the base 70, as shown in FIG. 7. In example embodiments, the support arm 50 can rotate 180° or as far as will be allowed by the support surface. In alternate embodiments, the range of motion is limited, for example to about 90° or other acute angle. The pivotal adjustment or rotation of the support arm 50 allows the caregiver to move the entertainment component 20 to a better access position for interaction by the child. In example embodiments, the rotational coupling between the base 70 and the support arm 50 can hold the support arm in at a variety of angles of inclination without the use of a releasable locking mechanism, for example by provision of a spring-biased detent mechanism, whereby the caregiver can adjust the position of the support arm 50 without having to manually unlock a locking mechanism. In alternate embodiments, the coupling between the base and the support arm 50 includes a locking mechanism with a release button or other actuator.

The entertainment component 20 can be rotated in conjunction with or independently of the support arm 50, as shown in FIG. 8. The position of the access adjustable play gym 10 in FIG. 8 allows the entertainment canopy 20 to be moved closer to the support surface and a child resting thereon while still allowing the entertainment canopy 20 to be positioned generally parallel to the support surface. If the entertainment component 20 includes hanging toys 40, as shown in FIG. 9, this configuration allows the toys to be moved closer to the support surface and thereby in reach of a smaller child. In alternate positions, the canopy 20 can be positioned generally perpendicular to the support surface, as shown in FIG. 10 or can be at another angle relative to the support surface, as shown in FIG. 11.

The support arm 50 can be rotated such that the entertainment component 20 is positioned adjacent to the support surface. In this configuration, an infant lying on their stomach or side can see and interact with the entertainment component 20. In example embodiments, the entertainment component 20 can include interactive features 42 such as spinners, buttons, and other features designed to entertain the child, as shown in FIG. 13. The entertainment component 20 can also include lights or other visual features. In other embodiments, the entertainment component 20 can include a receiver 44 for a mobile electronic device D, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. In this embodiment, the receiver 44 is configured to hold a mobile electronic device D, such a cell phone or tablet, on the entertainment component 20 such that the display screen is facing the child play area. An infant occupant can watch a video or play a game on the mobile device D while it is supported on the entertainment component 20.

The support arm 50 optionally also includes an extension mechanism allowing adjustment of its length or height. For example, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the support arm 50 includes a bottom sleeve 54 and an upper shaft 56. The bottom sleeve 54 includes a locking mechanism and a release button 58 and the upper shaft 56 includes a series of notches 60. The shaft 56 is configured to fit slidingly or telescopingly within the sleeve 54 to allow extension and retraction of the shaft relative to the sleeve. The locking mechanism is configured to engage one of the notches 60 on the shaft corresponding to a desired height or length adjustment. To adjust the length of the support arm 50, the caregiver can push the release button 58 and extend or retract the shaft 56 to the desired length, and release the button so that the locking mechanism reengages the corresponding notch 60. In the depicted embodiment, the support arm 50 can be adjusted to a first (shorter) length corresponding to a lower height of the canopy appropriate for use by an infant on a play mat 62 positioned under the canopy, as shown in FIG. 18. The support arm 50 can alternatively be adjusted to a second (longer) length corresponding to a higher height of the canopy that allows the play gym 10 to be used with a child seated in a raised child containment device C such as a bouncer or rocker, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. In alternate embodiments, the support arm 50 can have a greater or smaller range of lengths or heights. In this embodiment, different dimensioned play gyms 10 can be designed for use with a play mat and a child containment or support device.

The support arm 50 is pivotally coupled to a base 70 configured to rest on a support surface, such as the floor. The support base 70 generally includes one or more support legs 72. In the depicted embodiment, the base 70 includes two support legs 72 pivotally coupled to a central base hub 74. The support arm 50 is also pivotally coupled to the base 70 at the base hub 74. In example embodiments, the support legs 72 are generally curved such that the base 70 forms a semi-circular footprint. In alternate embodiments, the support legs 72 can be straight or can define right angles, and the base can form a generally triangular or rectangular footprint. The support legs 72 can optionally include a padded covering 76 to protect against injury or scratching a finished floor surface. Optionally a play mat 62 can be coupled between the support legs 72, for example by straps, clips or other connectors. In the unfolded or extended in-use position, shown in FIG. 1, the two support legs 72 form an about 180° angle and are configured to each rest on the support surface. The support legs 72 can be folded to a compact storage position, as shown in FIG. 23. In the storage configuration the two support legs 72 form an about 0° to 15° angle. In example embodiments, the base hub 74 includes a locking mechanism to lock the base 70 in the in-use position. Optionally, the locking mechanism can lock the base 70 in the folded position as well. The locking mechanism includes a release button 80 shown in FIG. 21. When the button 80 is pushed the user can pivot the support legs 72 relative to each other, as shown in FIG. 22, to move the base 70 to the storage position. In example embodiments, both support legs 72 are pivotally attached to the base hub 74. In alternate embodiments, one leg 72 is attached to the base hub 74 in a fixed position and the other is pivotally attached.

In use, an adult caregiver assembles and positions the device 10 as described and shown. The caregiver optionally adjusts one or more of the positional adjustment mechanisms to a desired position corresponding to an intended mode of use. A child may be positioned beneath, beside or around the device, for example on the ground, on a play mat, or in an elevated child support device. The adult caregiver may further readjust one or more of the positional adjustment mechanisms to another desired position corresponding to another intended mode of use. For example, the elevation or height of the canopy may be adjusted up or down depending on the size and position of a child, and/or depending upon whether the child is positioned on the ground or at an elevated position. The angular orientation of the support arm relative to the base, and/or the angular orientation of the canopy hub relative to the support arm can be adjusted, for example to provide shade from the sun, to provide an overhead support for toys or entertainment features, or to support a display device viewable from the child's location. The leaves or other components of the canopy can be expanded or contracted, to suit the intended use. After use, the device can be folded into its folded configuration for compact storage and transport.

While the invention has been described with reference to example embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications, additions and deletions are within the scope of the invention, as defined by the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An adjustable play gym comprising: a base configured to rest on a support surface; a support arm coupled to the base, wherein an angle of inclination of the support arm relative to the base is adjustable; and an entertainment component coupled to the support arm.
 2. The adjustable play gym of claim 1, wherein the angle of inclination of the support arm relative to the base has an adjustment range of at least about 90°.
 3. The adjustable play gym of claim 1, wherein the support arm has an adjustable length.
 4. The adjustable play gym of claim 1, wherein the entertainment component comprises a canopy.
 5. The adjustable play gym of claim 4, wherein the canopy comprises at least one canopy leaf attached to a hub.
 6. The adjustable play gym of claim 5, wherein at least one canopy leaf is pivotally attached to the hub.
 7. The adjustable play gym of claim 1, wherein the base is reconfigurable between an expanded in-use position and a compact storage position.
 8. The adjustable play gym of claim 7, wherein the base further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the base in the in-use position.
 9. The access adjustable play gym of claim 7, wherein the base further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the base in the storage position.
 10. An adjustable play gym comprising: a base configured to rest on a support surface; a support arm coupled to the base; and an entertainment component coupled to the support arm, wherein a rotational angle of the entertainment component relative to the support arm is adjustable.
 11. The adjustable play gym of claim 10, wherein the rotational angle of the entertainment component relative to the support arm has an adjustment range of at least about 90°.
 12. The adjustable play gym of claim 10, wherein the entertainment component comprises an attachment for a children's toy.
 13. The adjustable play gym of claim 10, wherein the entertainment component comprises an interactive or visually stimulating feature.
 14. The adjustable play gym of claim 10, wherein the entertainment component comprises a receiver for a mobile electronic device.
 15. The adjustable play gym of claim 10, wherein the entertainment component is detachable from the support arm.
 16. The adjustable play gym of claim 10, wherein the base comprises one or more support legs.
 17. The adjustable play gym of claim 16, wherein the base comprises two support legs and wherein at least one support leg is pivotally coupled to a base hub.
 18. The adjustable play gym of claim 17, wherein the base legs are reconfigurable between an extended in-use position and a compact storage position.
 19. The adjustable play gym of claim 18, wherein the base hub comprises a locking mechanism configured to releasably lock the base legs in the in-use position.
 20. An adjustable play gym comprising: a base configured to rest on a support surface; a support arm having a first end pivotally coupled to the base whereby an inclination angle of the support arm relative to the base is variable, and further comprising a length extension mechanism allowing adjustment of a distance between the base and a second end of the support arm distal the first end; and an entertainment component coupled to the second end of the support arm, the entertainment component comprising a hub and a plurality of leaves extending from the hub, wherein a rotational angle of the hub relative to the support arm is adjustable, and wherein at least one of the plurality of leaves is repositionable relative to the hub. 